I am a pretty much a First Amendment absolutist. People should be allowed to say whatever they want within the well-understood boundaries of the law. This applies very much to American citizens and, within reason, to Green Card holders. I tend to think that guests of any kind should be required to meet minimum standards, including screaming “Death to America.”
But unlike many liberals and university administrators, I draw a pretty strict line between “speech” and aggressive action, including harassment. Calling for the destruction of our institutions, committing vandalism, intimidating people, “occupying” spaces, or any other actions can and should be regulated in a way that pure speech is not.
Demonstrations should require permits, faces should be exposed, intimidation should be off limits, and people should be dispersed when it is required.
Great news…
